TESTIMONIALS

Makoplasty Robotic partial knee resurfacing is a less invasive solution designed to restore the feeling of a natural knee.

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

Dr. Tarlow is great.

May 8, 2017

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I traveled from Oregon to have an ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair performed by Dr. Tarlow. I have multiple family members whom also have seen Dr. T., all have had great experiences. Staff is great.

Timothy Bocchi.

​I am happy to say the surgery is a success

March 28, 2017

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Hi Dr. T! Almost two years out now from my mako + ACL surgery​. Pain is almost gone! I'm doing yoga, lifting weights spinning and planning a 5 day  backpacking trip in September. I am happy to say the surgery is a success.

Thank you for everything. I finally feel like I'm getting my life back. It was tough for awhile but I feel like it was worth it. Can't thank you enough.

Susan T.

My knee feels so normal

November 2, 2016

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Dr Tarlow, I’m so glad I had a total knee replacement. It’s amazing that I don’t have limitations. My knee feels so normal, I can even kneel comfortably. Now I want my other knee to feel the same way. Hope you know how much I appreciate your skills!

Velda C.

You do amazing work!

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You fixed my ACL after the first ACL surgery by my local surgeon failed. Thank you so much for making my knee able to withstand some fun again! You do amazing work! Got to ski with my son for his first time and with my dear friend who is still skiing at 84 years young. And I can still walk today. 🙂
No words to say how much that means to me!

Shannon G.

Dr Tarlow has done miracles with my knee

September 2, 2016

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I had the misfortune of being involved in a bad accident when I was 18. Doctors and therapist would just shake their heads after seeing my pictures and MRI. They’d say good luck, nothing we can do for you…through that process however I was eventually pointed in his direction. In a matter of minutes he was able assess what was going on and knew what the plan was to be. It was not fun! it was very painful! But it worked!

Since then I’ve spoken to people from all around the country about my experiences. All of whom as soon as they hear me mention his name would perk up and respond with some type of comment similar to “Wow! you had the best!” I truly feel, and know, I truly did have the best!

Connie O.

Knee is doing very well

September 22, 2016

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Morning Doc! Just wanted to drop you a quick line and let you know the knee is doing very well, aches after exercise but it is strong and I am doing things I wouldn’t have done before due to the discomfort. Thank you very much Doc.

Kirk A Thornton
General Manager Service Division

A New Life

November 17, 2013

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Because of Dr. Tarlow I am now able to walk without significant pain. I went to him for a second opinion and he said that I needed a partial knee replacement. He specializes in robotic surgery and it is the best thing that I ever did. After one week I was walking without a cane and back to work 13 days later. The best thing of all is that the excruciating pain that I suffered for months is gone. If anyone has a knee problem, he is the one to see as he has helped people, without surgery, to get better.

Andrew Then

Fantastic

May 2nd, 2013

Dr. Tarlow and the entire office staff have been fantastic to work with. I had done quite a bit of research on knee replacement and had decided to check on having Makoplasty done. I saw Dr. Tarlow in his Mesa office and he was very up front and honest with me. If I wanted to have the surgery done and have it last I needed to lose 20 pounds. I changed the eating habits that I have needed to do for along time. 6 weeks after my initial consult the procedure was done. I walked out of Thompson Peak Surgical Ceneter with the aid of a walker 6 hours after surgery. I had surgery 9 days ago and had my post op check up today. Staple are removed and I will have steri strips for another week or so. I’ve been to PT twice and they are amazed with where I am. I went from the walker to a cane in 5 days. The cane will be gone in a couple of days, I will be in PT for about 3 more weeks. I’m driving myself to work tomorrow and plan on golf soon. This surgery is an amazing procedure and Dr. Tarlow and his team have been great. If the other knee has to be done at some point I would not have anyone else do it for me.

Tom M.

FP Doc, High Altitude Alpine Climber

Oct 18th, 2012

After literally thousands of miles hiking and backpacking, uncountable hours in the gym, and 10’s of thousands of feet of vertical elevation on mountains on multiple continents I finally wore out the lateral compartment on my right knee. The pain was like I had been speared in the back of the knee on the descents. Replacing the parts of the knee that weren’t broken made no sense. Makoplasty made total sense. Dr. Tarlow and his staff were the best from start to finish. I know he is highly skilled and expert in this procedure. I received all the time I needed and even though I new what he was talking about he took the time to explain the details to my wife. She was not a “third person” in the exam room. After over 30 years of practice I think I can separate superior and average physicians and superior and average results. Superior on both counts. As a patient, you have a responsibility for the success of your outcome. You follow the rules, you fight through the pain, you go to physical therapy and you invest in your recovery. You have to want to be better. Dr Tarlow will get you back to the point where you have something to work with. Wishing I could give a 5 star rating.

Total knee replacement

Nov 27th, 2012

Dr Tarlow’s goal in surgery is to line up the knee perfectly. He did. I stood on my new knee the day of surgery, I went home the next day, I quit the pain pills two days later, it’s now my two week anniversary and I am walking with a cane and can put my full weight on the leg. Dr. Tarlow gets 10 outta 10 from me.

Bill Fenster

Two Total Knee Replacements

Jul 17th, 2012

Dr Tarlow was the best Dr. for my knee surgery. He encouraged me too the point that I was excited about the future of my knees and health. I had my first surgery on the 23rd of May and three weeks later I had surgery on the other knee. It is know 11 weeks from the original surgery and I am very pleased with the outcome. Dr Tarlow has become almost like a younger brother. He has treated me with respect and is very professional.

Ed Kesner

ACL Reconstruction

Sep 4th, 2011

I am a 54 yr old male who completely tore my right ACL and meniscus. Dr. Tarlow was an amazing doctor throughout the process – from reviewing and consulting with me and my MRI on options, preparing for surgery, performing the surgery, and post op follow-ups. My knee is doing great now. He answered all my many questions, and was able to explain things to me in lay terms. He has so much experience with knees that he is able to answer and explain all the scenarios. If my children or wife needed knee surgery (or my other knee), he is the doctor I would send them to.

Feel young again

Jan 19th, 2012

I had a partial knee a few years ago and just had it replaced with a total and it’s been great. Surgery and recovery time was two months and I am now back to teaching 13 fitness classes a week. It has been great……I feel young again and Dr Tarlow is the reason. He is an amazing Dr that made everything easy to understand and I would trust him with both my knees if I had to.

Best knee doc ever

Jul 28th, 2011

I’m a nurse and procrastinated for way too long in dealing with my right knee. I researched doctors all over the US and was so excited to finally find Dr. Tarlow. I can’t believe anyone would find his bedside manner rude, as a nurse I know rude doctors and Dr. Tarlow is anything but. He’s one of the most caring, kind, doctors I’ve ever seen. I trusted him totally and I can’t say that about many others. He did a partial knee replacement when many others don’t even do the procedure. I’d travel from anywhere to see him if I need him again, awesome doctor!!!!

Best Knee Doctor in Arizona

Jul 7th, 2011

Dr. Tarlow was the second orthopaedic surgeon who I saw after I destroyed my knee in a white water accident. On my first visit with Dr. Tarlow, he spent a considerable amount of time with me diagnosing my knee problem, explaining to me in great detail the damage done, and also explaining the course of action that needed to be taken. I had major knee surgery on 12/6/10 to repair my badly damaged knee (3 incisions, 44 staples, and 3 orthoscopic holes). Dr. Tarlow did a fantastic job, and after 7 months of physical therapy I have resumed all of my normal activities. I wasn’t sure if I would ever be able to run again, but Dr. Tarlow had no doubt in his mind. Dr. Tarlow is very straight forward doctor. If you’re the type of person that needs your hand held, then Dr. Tarlow might not be the right doctor for you. I’m a very driven individual and am determined to get back to 100%. With Dr. Tarlow’s help, I believe that I’m almost there.

Dr. Tarlow is by far the best

Mar 31st, 2014

I have had 12 surgeries on my right knee & 3 total knee replacements in 4.5 years. Of all of the surgeons I’ve had experience with Dr. Tarlow is by far the best. With his incredible bedside manner & his natural caring of people he has made dealing with my issues so much easier. Dr. Tarlow’s wonderful, caring nature he has made it so much easier to get down this tough road. I don’t know what I would do without his care & support. If you’re looking for a wonderful surgeon who actually cares about you I wouldn’t recommend anyone but him.

Kim Sizemore

More Than Just an Orthopedic Surgeon

May, 2014

Dr. T,
You have been a beacon on a long and arduous journey. Thank you so much for your unwavering support. Also, both my artificial knees are doing well.

Gretchen

After Dirt Bike Crash Knee Nearly Good As New

March, 2014

From a twenty one year old dirt bike rider that sustained multiple knee ligament tears, tibial plateau fracture and displaced meniscal tear from a hard crash. This injury require a 2 stage surgical repair.
Dr. Tarlow,
As I have recovered and started to return back to my normal activities I have felt overwhelmed with gratitude for what you did to restore my knee. I know that I have complained along the way but I truly am so grateful for the work and care that you and your team put into reconstructing my knee. Being physically active brings me so much joy that I don’t even want to try to imagine all the “what-ifs” that could have occurred. I have enjoyed meeting with you over the past couple of years. Thank you for being such a man of integrity and a phenomenal surgeon. You are a blessing lives.

Alyson W. P.

Best knee doc!

Best knee doc I have ever had! Dr. Tarlow performed a partial knee replacement on my left knee April 2013. Was up the next day doing physical therapy. 1 week later I mowed the lawn. Three weeks out I was riding my bike and two months post operative I was playing golf.
Thanks for giving me a new lease on life. I feel great and back to doing activities that I missed due to arthritic pain in my knee from a high school skiing injury on Mt. Hood, Oregon.
I highly recommend, Dr. Stefan Tarlow….Go Oregon Ducks!

Steve Ramsthel

A Happy Couple – 2 New Makoplasty Patients

On June 2, 2014 the two of us had Makoplasty Robotic Arm Partial Knee Resurfacing done at Scottsdale Healthcare Thompson Peak. Both Eli’s and my surgery were performed by Dr. Stefan Tarlow that morning. We came home the next day and have done a lot of physical therapy together, both at home and at an outpatient facility in Mesa. Dr. Tarlow evaluated us and confirmed we were good prospects for this procedure when we had met him earlier at his Mesa office. This procedure causes much less damage to the knee joint and this has resulted in our recovery being fast and good. We are very pleased we went this route instead of a full knee replacement. Maybe this new way of taking care of knee problems can help you, too.

Alvin G.

Life is Back to Normal after Makoplasty

Hello doctor Tarlow. My name is Antonio P. I was your patient 3 years ago. I had knee surgery (lateral Makoplasty) with you and I am really happy. My knee is in very good condition. I can run and I do exercises. My life is back to normal. I thank you so much. You did an excellent job with me. Believe me when I say I never thought my knee would ever be so good. Thank you so much again.

New Lease on Life

Dec. 2014

Hi Doc: I am at one month from manipulation…..done with therapy, and doing 116 degrees on my own….121 when helped by my physical therapist.
Thanks for giving me a “new lease on life”. Last weekend I drove to baseball reunion in Laughlin, Nevada and did not hurt or swell….putting socks on …..getting into car….picking golf ball out of hole without pain.
You made this possible and didn’t give up on me when others did. Go Ducks and Devils!!
I am a happy guy,

Cris

Glad I Came for 2nd Opinion – Now my leg is straight

August, 2014

I had a TKA done by anther surgeon and had complained to him my knee was out of alignment. He told me to wait for swelling etc and it would be better. Decided to get a 2nd opinion with Dr T -absolutely amazing. He was so caring and responsive even though it had been less then 2 mos from my surgery. He saw immediately it was out of place scheduled for a revision surgery at just 3 mos out from first one. My knee is not only straight but the pain from being out of alignment which was causing hip & foot pain was gone. I am only 4 weeks out right now and it was the best thing I ever did. Dr Tarlow and his staff are so awesome, they answer questions and you just feel well care for. I HIGHLY recommend Dr Tarlow for anyone needing knee surgery or to seek him for a 2nd opinion if your first surgery the results never feel right. He is the best!!

Dawn C.

No Hidden Surprises

Dr. Tarlow was awesome! Everything that he told us would happen did happen and there were no hidden surprises. He informed me about everything and explained everything to our satisfaction. Because of Dr. Tarlow, my knee is 100% for the first time in 35 years. Thank you Dr. Tarlow.

Karen G.

Makoplasty is Fascinating – A Physical Therapists perspective

June, 2014.

I am a physical therapist at Foothills Sports Medicine in North Scottsdale. I had the opportunity to observe a MAKOplasty, partial knee replacement, procedure performed by Dr. Tarlow. It was a fascinating surgery with the use of computer assisted technology. Dr. Tarlow was extremely thorough and precise throughout the procedure, which I appreciate from a therapist perspective. I have treated a number of his patients following this, and other procedures, and know that his attention to detail allows for good progression during the rehabilitation process and overall better outcomes.

A Nurse Shares her Knee Replacement experience

My name is Cynthia J., a 58 year old R.N., and this is my testimony to a magnificent total knee replacement experience with Dr. Stefan Tarlow and his staff. The first appointment with Dr. Tarlow was very informative, reassuring, and his display of genuine concern of correcting my valgus deformity (knock-kneed) impressed me the most. After talking with Dr. Tarlow and discussing how the knee replacement would help correct spine misalignments due to my right leg being shorter, I knew it was time! His office staff was phenomenal with getting me scheduled for the procedure and letting me know upfront of all out of pocket expenses and insurance codes. My most memorable moment was when all the bandages were removed and I was standing on my own looking at how straight my leg was. THANK YOU DR. TARLOW!

Cynthia J

Torn ACL in Professional Horse Trainer

I am very impressed with the care I’ve received. After 4 surgeries with the last surgeon and the last year of feeling like the pain was my fault, this has been a very different experience. I do appreciate how much you care and want to help. I wouldn’t wish knee problems on anybody but I will be giving out your name to those who have to deal with it. I can’t say enough how much I appreciate the care I’ve received.

Shannon

Good job!

I would like very much to add my experience with Doctor Tarlow’s patient reviews. I am a 65 year old male. About 2 years ago, Doctor Tarlow performed total reconstruction on my right knee. He instructed me to focus on my therapy and cautioned me that it wouldn’t be without discomfort, but if I worked at it the results would be good. Well, they were far from good. Within a few weeks I was riding my bicycle, short distances. I worked with therapists for nearly 6 months. By the end of my therapy, I could bicycle more than 20 miles and walk many miles with little or no discomfort. It’s been two years now. I bicycle more than 100 miles per week, often riding more than 50 miles at a time. Walking is unlimited. I have zero pain. Zero. I am unlimited in all activities. In summary, I am extremely pleased with the results and have recommended friends to Doctor Tarlow. Good job!!

Rick Headley

I Got My Life Back

I have lived most of my life in various degrees of knee pain due to my avid pursuit of sports. It is never an easy choice to undergo surgery of any kind, but as it began affecting my everyday skills, it became increasingly necessary that I make that much needed decision to have knee surgery (Makoplasty on one knee, ACL reconstruction on the other knee). My research led me to Dr. Tarlow. I found him to be honest and direct. His professionalism and bed side manner are admirable. His innovative surgical techniques led to a short and complete recovery. I want to express my gratitude and thanks because for the first time in a large number of years, I had NO PAIN!. I got my life back.

Loretta

Happy to Report Completely Pain Free

Now several months after subchondroplasty (December, 2014) I am completely pain free. It took a while to heal but now I am doing so well. I say ‘thank you” every day because I walk and stand and sleep pain free. You had the answer and the procedure to heal my knee.

Jill

Exemplary Care and Expertise

Truly I can not thank you enough for your care and expertise in performing a Makoplasty on my knee. You have gifted me with a better quality of life. I am inspired and grateful to be able to do so much more to enjoy life. Now I know what it means to have a new lease on life.

Adé

Carticel Knee Still going great at 10 years

Dear Doc Tlow, Now 10 years since you re-grew the cartilage in my right knee. I can be a normal Dad running with my son, can participate in soccer and no more swelling or pain. Many thanks.

Joel A.

Skiing 2 months after Makoplasty

Went skiing 2 days in a row. Mostly skied on the green and blue runs. No falls, no pain. I am amazed and quite pleased.

Jake

I am doing great!

Hello Dr Tarlow and staff, I just wanted you to know how pleased I am just 36 hrs after surgery. I am doing great! I have been able to walk with a cane and without. Pain is tolerable with only Tylenol and Ibuprofen. I have not had to use Percocet at all. Exercises are going well and I’m looking forward to starting PT on Saturday. I am strictly following your protocols for icing and DVT prevention. Your practice and the surgery center have been wonderful. It is clear all of you have this “drilled down” to perfection. I cannot say enough good things about the surgery center staff. From the receptionist to me walking out (amazing). Mary and Julie my nurses, were great and made me feel well taken care of. Anesthesia with Dr. Miller was magical. She rocks! The PA and circulating nurse who took the time to come by and introduce themselves were wonderful. And of course, you, Dr Tarlow… You inspired me with your confidence, knowledge and expertise. You gave me courage!

Happy Patient

US Airways Mechanic Back to Work – “Fantastic”

I broke my right leg in a motorcycle crash in 2004. After the bones healed I had progressive knee pain. The pain worsened despite two arthroscopic surgeries. By last Fall my knee hurt so bad I spent most weekends sitting on the couch watching movies and taking strong pain pills. Dr. Tarlow performed a complex surgery replacing my knee cap and doing an OATS procedure on another part of my knee. Now, my knee joint feel fantastic. I can’t say THANK YOU enough.

John C.

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